While prepping for a major home renovation, Luana Guglielmi required a practical system that would provide storage and allow her to rid waste at her own pace. An ambitious do-it-yourselfer and advocate of green living, Luana found U-Box-It to be aligned economically and ethically to her project and needs. “I could not believe how simple it was. It’s really intuitive … the set-up was just really quick and easy,” she says. Not only was Luana drawn to the fact that the box is made from 100 per cent recyclable materials, she especially liked the segregation process that is used to further reduce the carbon footprint once junk is picked up. “They came, they picked it up, and they disposed of it. I loved the ease of it. I loved the service part of it, and I loved the sustainability part of it. For me, it was just the perfect mix,” she says.

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Whether renovating, moving or simply storing seasonal sports equipment, commercial and residential clients across the GTA depend on the enhanced customer service of the U-Box-It team. “It’s not so much about the product as it is the service. There’s no time restrictions, no rental charges. They simply have the box delivered when they want it delivered and removed when they want it removed,” says Domenic Augurusa, U-Box-It’s marketing and sales director.

Since its inception in 2005, the U-Box-It brand has received praise from across North America, winning bronze at the 2008 International Design Excellence Awards in Washington, D.C. and featured in Bloomberg Businessweek.
www.uboxit.com 1.877.782.6948

1 Zensations
With vibrant colours complementing the hues of spring blossoms, these traditional Buddha heads fuse Zen with a hint of modern design into your space. www.homesense.ca

2 Home Made
Carmine strawberries and leafy green asparagus by Harvest Collection will up the ante when harvesting season favourites. www.homedepot.ca

3 Green Bay
Stripe your grass as you mow with a system that can be easily attached to your walk-behind mower. The end-result is a professional-looking lawn that will make the neighbours green with envy. www.toro.ca

4 Secret Garden
There’s something about creating a personalized oasis in your backyard that brands gardening both a rewarding and relaxing experience. www.homedepot.ca

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5 Leap of Faith
A charming addition to any garden, this loveable frog seat statue will put a smile on your face and keep you hopping for horticulture. www.lowes.ca

6 Pretty in Pink
Watch your garden blush with robust peonies that will replace the winter blues. www.homedepot.ca

7 Book Worm
If you need to hone in on gardening skills, crave extra inspiration or want tips and tricks, the Tips for Container Gardening book by Fine Gardening magazine will give you the kick-start you need. www.taunton.com

8 Greek Salad
Old-world pots add a lovely Grecian touch to rich greenery. Convey a luxurious atmosphere with bouquets of white and lavender vines. www.homesense.ca

9 Shine On
While a garden is rarely thirsty for colour, a bit of sparkle is often needed. Satisfy your craving for shine by tastefully including a sequined wire design, which hangs on the wall and into the mix. www.homesense.ca

Born into a thriving disposal business, some might say Mammone was destined to follow his father’s entrepreneurial footsteps. “My dad has always been more of an innovator, and I think I took after him … I’ve always tried to think differently, try new things, come up with new ideas,” says Mammone, who invented U-Box-It to fill a gap in the commercial and residential waste removal market. The industry was evolving and with the rise of mini containers and massive metal bins, a niche revealed itself for a cleverly designed concept that would help reduce our carbon footprint.

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Brought to life in 2005, the versatile U-Box-It system has become the preferred choice of do-it-yourself consumers seeking eco-conscious solutions for office junk, storage, renovation scraps, yard waste and seasonal cleanup. Delivered by the U-Box-It team in a flat, easy-to-assemble cardboard box, customers are able to order and fill as many containers as they wish and demand pickup at their own pace, whether it’s days, months or even years down the road. Because of its unique size, U-Box-It has the heightened advantage of diverting the disposable materials to appropriate recycling facilities.

“When you’re running a business, it’s important to give the customer what they want. If you can follow this rule, it doesn’t matter what business you’re in – you will do well,” says marketing director Domenic Augurusa. Though U-Box-It is spreading convenience across the GTA, Toronto’s the Beaches (East York) neighbourhood is soaking up most of the brand’s sales right now, mostly due to the high concentration of tight spaces. “In the Beaches, space is limited and with most other systems you have to wait for the pickup truck to back in and load up, but our system is designed for tight areas and can go into 99 per cent of locations,” he says, adding that 75 per cent of the business is repeat clientele.

In the interim, Mammone is in the process of cutting deals with major retailers and establishing franchises with local entrepreneurs eager to take on the environmental company. With U-Box-It already garnering interest in emerging markets around the globe, Mammone’s long-term goal is to see his brand cross borders. “I see it as being a major player in the junk removal business within the next five years or so. I see it going further than just the U.S.,” says the optimistic founder. His entrepreneurial advice is equally compelling. “You can’t give up … You need to take criticism constructively and as long as you know in your gut that it’s a good idea, you have to push forward.” www.uboxit.com

Examples of items that can be disposed:
Seasonal sports equipment
Renovation waste
Clothes and shoes
Office supplies
Furniture
Household junk
Children’s toys
If in doubt of junk to be loaded, please call 1.877.782.6948

It’s an exciting time to be alive. Every once in a while throughout history, a major revolution takes place. It happened at the turn of the 18th century when industry sprung into action using chemicals, gas and steam power. We recently witnessed another one, as the dawn of technology came to pass, unleashing a newly digital and computerized world. Now one more major transformation is being born. Countries all over the globe are going green by looking at new eco-friendly technologies and ways to preserve Mother Earth – something we might see sooner than later in Ontario.

The Green Energy Act is the McGuinty government’s solution to an ecological and financial mess, caused by years of pollution and a current economic downturn. If passed later this June, the legislation will create over 50,000 green jobs, establish province-wide renewable energy sources, and reduce overall power consumption for Ontarians. The initiative is expected to change the way we live and breathe, and surround our landscapes with sprouting green technologies as coal-fired power is eventually phased out.

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Solar panelling, for starters, will become an increasingly familiar sight. “You’re going to see them blending into homes so that you don’t even notice,” says CEO Vern Sherwood of Excess Energy, a company that specializes in making houses energy-self-sufficient. “There are a variety of solar arrays that match your shingles or blend into your landscape. They’re actually quite attractive and aesthetically pleasing.” Sherwood, who has experience outfitting northern cottages and Toronto homes, points out the environmental benefits. “The average homeowner can, in good conscience, be less of a strain on the system. You don’t have to worry about turning down your air conditioning because you’re making your own energy and you’re not polluting.”

Another useful source of renewable energy is finding its way into the construction of new buildings. As one of the world’s most under used natural power sources, geothermal energy is becoming increasingly popular. “We’ll pump a median down into the ground in a pipe typically, at 45 degrees and it’ll come back up at 50 degrees,” says John Lobb, vice president of GeoLogic Heating. “In a nutshell, it’s using Earth’s low-differential temperature to gather heat from the ground.” His company is currently working on two major projects in Ottawa that will operate using the technology. “You can either generate more electricity or use less. This is approximately 50 percent cheaper than natural gas, and is more affordable than any other conventional heating and air conditioning system,” Lobb admits.

Of course, one of the most popular technologies spawned centuries ago. Wind turbines effectively convert mechanical energy into electricity, and can be seen anywhere from farms and coastlines, to the middle of open seas. The Green Energy Act will expedite the growth and construction of wind turbines, which has caused somewhat of a stir from NIMBY (Not in my Backyard) activists, who argue about noise and size. Other objections are based on possible side-effects cause by infrasound – sound that isn’t picked up by human hearing. But according to Brian Howe of HGC Engineering, a consulting firm specializing in environmental and industrial noise control, “There’s no evidence that wind turbines are creating infrasound.” Howe’s research is based on extensive measurements taken at a number of the province’s wind farms. “And the Ontario Ministry of Energy has increased the criteria for wind turbines, along with their setback distances,” he says.

Overall, there are a series of gains when it comes to the Green Energy Act. According to Kristopher Stevens, executive director of the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association, “The Green Energy Act hopes to create a network that heals itself, using a number of small generators as opposed to a big generator, that might cause problems if it goes down.” Also known as a Smart Grid, the concept will set the stage for green technologies like the plug-in electric car. This spring marks the release of a government study on how to advance its introduction, through a partnership with Silicon Valley’s Better Place. The California company will look at building a network of charging posts and battery swapping stations throughout the province, providing a standardized automotive infrastructure for electric vehicles.

In the grand scheme of things, the Green Energy Act looks like a promising idea that will offer a better, cleaner tomorrow. It seems humanity is once again stepping through a portal of historical change, which will alter the very thread of our daily lives. And it all comes not a moment too soon. Amidst an environment that screams for cleansing and rejuvenation, it’s about time we invest our every effort in going green and getting our act together.

www.ontariogreenenergyact.ca
www.toronto.ca/livegreen
www.excessenergy.net
www.geologicheating.ca

*Due to the graphic content found in some of the featured videos, viewer discretion is advised.

1. Meet Your Meat
A disturbing look into the process of raising animals for human consumption reveals gut-wrenching methods of torture. The next time you sink your teeth into filet mignon, think of how your food was injected with antibiotics; mutilated and castrated, starved, beaten and scalded to death, just before it landed on your plate.

2. Whose Skin are you in?
Ever wonder why PETA often lambastes celebrities in the media for wearing fur and leather? Familiarize yourself with the violent industry of murdering animals in the name of fashion.

3. Coastal Dead Zones Grow
A NASA oceanographer swims through the perils of ocean ‘dead zones’ and the death of marine life, caused by storm run-offs full of fertilizers, fossil fuels and other toxic elements that seep into our river systems.

4. Why are Bees Disappearing?
The sting of disappearing bees has agricultural officials and beekeepers worried that insecticides and pesticides are the reason for colony collapse disorder. Because the key to keeping fresh fruits, nuts and vegetables on our table depends on bees pollinating our crops, one third of our food is in jeopardy.

These stylish home décor products have come to save the day! With innovative tips and ideas for an eco-friendly atmosphere, you’ll be well underway to living the good life – eco style.

Chicken Rattle
Your child will be shaking around with this cute little animal friend for hours to come. Made out of safe and natural fibres such as soft organic. www.miyim.com, www.indigo.com

Scroll Puff Chair & Ottoman
Sit back and relax in this ultra-comfy, oh-so-soft antique linen chair. Made with 100 per cent natural linen fibre, the recycled steel frame adds durability to its scenic presence. www.gaiam.com

Snaidero Kitchen and Design
Elegantly crafted and functional, this modernly designed kitchen is fit for a king. The dark oak wood panels highlight the illuminating countertops, which adds dimension to an open-concept space. www.snaidero-usa.com

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Vase
This beautifully crafted vase is simple yet elegant. Big enough to fit a large bouquet of flowers, the see-through hole allows you to keep track of how much water it’s holding. www.branchhome.com

Bamboo Plates
Liven up your kitchen table with function. These neutral-toned, biodegradable bamboo plates make a great complement to all your dishware. www.branchhome.com

Aluminum Water Bottle
Stay hydrated all day long with this trendy aluminum water bottle. With its trendy green shade and intricate patterned details, you’ll keep moving in style. www.gaiam.com

Silk Cushions
Sitting on the floor has never been this comfortable. These overly sized cushions made of loomed silk and dyed by hand in deep red, gold and cream make for the perfect accent piece. www.gaiam.com

Faux Stone Finish
Transform your concrete floor into a captivating faux stone finish design. Available in many colour combinations, this durable coating is cost-effective and energy efficient, and uses non-hazardous materials. www.durock.com

Wool Pebbles
Handmade in South Africa, these 100 per cent felted wool pebbles are lightweight and colourful. No two are exactly alike, which offers a unique element to these decorative accent pieces. www.brachhome.com

Zephyr Organics
Located in Zephyr, Ont., this farm boasts over 80 acres of certified organic vegetables for you to enjoy. With generations of farming experience, Ted Eng and his family grow everything from asparagus to zucchini and share it with local residents and restaurants. Zephyr also offers a Farm Share program, where consumers pay in advance for a share of the garden. Pick up your share of organic produce each week for 20 weeks – or have it delivered to your home – for a great way to save on groceries and maintain your health with nutritious, fresh foods. www.zephyrorganics.com

Beretta Organic Farms
A family-run farm located just outside of King City, Beretta Organic Farms is committed to providing organic meat products to health-conscious consumers. Mike and Cynthia Beretta, along with their three children, work daily to produce safe, great tasting products for their community. All crops are free of chemicals, genetically modified organisms and artificial fertilizers, and no antibiotics or growth promoters are used in raising the livestock. A truly organic farm, Beretta does its best to respect the environment by harvesting its products without the use of non-renewable and polluting energy sources. www.berettaorganics.com

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Harmony Organic
At Harmony Organic, cows are part of the family. The company’s name is a reflection of its commitment to work with nature harmoniously. Harmony believes that treating its cows with love and respect helps produce the best milk. The company offers the only organic buttermilk on the market, as well as Nature’s Whole, a non-homogenized milk. Harkening back to a simpler time, the cream in this milk rises to the top, so you can choose to skim it off and enjoy it with strawberries or drink it as it is. What’s more, Harmony’s milk comes in refillable glass bottles, which improves taste and reduces waste. www.harmonyorganic.com

ManoRun Organic Farm
Tucked away in Lynden, Ont., ManoRun Organic Farm spans 40 acres that produce vegetables, herbs, fruit, meat and bread. Owners Chris Krucker and Denise Trigatti have been farming organically for over 10 years and offer organic products through a “farmer-to-eater” relationship known as Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). A family run farm, Krucker and Trigatti work with local staff, intern volunteers and their four children to plant, cultivate, harvest and deliver the vegetables, manage the livestock and bring in the grain and hay crop. www.manorunfarm.com

Look at a highway in any city and you’ll notice the same thing – a sea of air-polluting machines. But travel doesn’t have to be damaging, especially with these environmentally friendly vehicles.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
With a range of more than 1,126 kilometres on a single tank of gas, you can expect to go the distance – literally. The Ford Fusion Hybrid preserves Mother Earth with its Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), allowing the car to flawlessly swap from gas to electric mode and back. Of course, the refined climate control is something to be reckoned with – it runs the gas engine only to heat the cabin. www.ford.com

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Going green doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. The Malibu Hybrid is one of the most affordable cars in Canada – and it’s good-looking, too. The new 17-inch low-rolling resistance tires contribute to better fuel economy and a sense of sporty style. Driving the Malibu Hybrid is nothing less than exciting; thanks to a nickel metal hydride (NiMH) hybrid battery pack that outputs more than 10,000 watts of maximum power. www.chevrolet.ca

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2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid
With its Latin name translating “to go before,” the Prius was born over a decade ago when the green movement was still in its infancy. Toyota’s popularity as one of the most preferred brands, combined with years of ongoing improvements, makes this vehicle a hot commodity. With over 1.5 million sold worldwide, drivers appreciate qualities like the remote air conditioning system, solar panel moonroof, and the 90-per-cent-improved Hybrid Synergy Drive. www.toyota.ca

2009 Saturn Vue 2-Mode Hybrid
Who says environmentally friendly cars have to be small and slow? Saturn’s 3.6-litre V-6 hybrid comes in the form of a compact SUV, offering fuel economy for the environment paired with power and towing capability for the sports enthusiast. The dual mode Vue allows for city driving at low speeds in all-electric power, engine power or both combined, and highway driving using fixed gear ratios and electric assistance in uphill and accelerating conditions. www.saturn.ca

2010 Nissan Altima Hybrid
Quality and innovation have always been important to Nissan owners, and now they can take it a step further. Introducing the fifth model in the 2009 Altima lineup, complete with empathy for the Earth. Dubbed an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), this stylish ride releases almost no evaporative emissions. And if that doesn’t impress you, take note of the regenerative breaking technology that allows the hybrid’s battery to charge without plugging in. www.nissan.ca

No matter where you spend it, a run-of-the-mill beach vacation is loosing its allure. With physical activity and eco-awareness on the rise, people are seeking new routes when it comes to the ultimate getaway. It’s a trend that’s picking up speed, as travellers combine bicycling with voyages to distant lands, provided by first-rate tour companies.

Whether you seek to explore the Hawaiian volcanoes or venture along Croatia’s Dalmation Coast, Backroads can help. As one of the world’s largest active travel companies, Backroads specializes in feature bike tours all over the globe. “I simply can’t imagine a better way to immerse yourself in the life of a region; to explore hidden corners and appreciate nuances while travelling under your own power,” says founder and president Tom Hale. Since the company’s first biking trips 30 years ago, Backroads now offers a variety of exotic getaways, including excursions to the Incan town of Ollantaytambo in Peru and the Chorten Nebu Monastery in Bhutan.

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The spirit of exploration is a key driving force behind another expedition leader like Discover France. When it comes to cycling, clients quickly discover it’s the business’ savoir-faire. Featuring self-guided bike tours throughout the country, Discover France provides a full network of local expertise and support to make every trip a pleasurable escape. Travellers can pedal back in time and visit the beaches of Normandy, once invaded by Allied forces in the Second World War. For the royal-minded, outings to the Loire Valley’s many Renaissance-era castles promises a majestic experience. Recognized by publications like Maison de la France, the company remains one of Europe’s pristine providers of adventurous retreats.

The best of both worlds comes together when explorers discover Pedal and Sea Adventures. An ultimate cycling quest unfolds with the company’s imaginative guided bike and cooking tours in Atlantic Canada and Europe. “You’ll encounter camaraderie, fresh air, great cuisine, wonderful inns, and if you’re lucky – wildlife, too,” says founder and co-owner Dana Gallant. Destinations include the snow-capped Canadian Rockies, complete with pines, elk and mountain goats. “Of course, our most challenging tours are the Viking Trail in Newfoundland and the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton,” Gallant says. For buccaneers seeking extra European flair, Pedal and Sea offers tours through Galway – Ireland’s cultural heart – and Sicily, a haven of Greek temples and Phoenician ruins.

With a never-ending list of places yet to be explored, the Earth remains an open field of adventure.

www.backroads.com
www.discoverfrance.com
www.pedalandseaadventures.com